Kake Seaplane Base

Forget conventional runways and gigantic terminals. Kake Seaplane Base is a gateway to the Alaskan wilderness, where the journey begins with a breathtaking take-off directly from the water's surface. Located in the town of the same name in the USA, it serves as a vital transport artery for the local Tlingit community and a starting point for unforgettable adventures. This is not just a transport hub, but part of an authentic Alaskan experience.

The main feature of the Kake Seaplane Base is, of course, its format. Flights on seaplanes (or "floatplanes") offer truly unique impressions. The sound of propellers, the spray of water during take-off and landing, as well as stunning bird's-eye views of the fjords, forests, and islands of the Alexander Archipelago — all this makes the flight an unforgettable part of the journey itself.

The airport mainly serves local airline flights, connecting Kake with major transport hubs in Southeast Alaska, such as Juneau and Petersburg. The terminal here is very compact and functional, eliminating the hustle and long queues typical of large airports. This allows travellers to enjoy a calm and almost home-like atmosphere before their flight, fully immersing themselves in the measured rhythm of life in Alaska.

Since Kake Seaplane Base (KAE) is a small base for seaplanes, most services, including ticket sales and passenger handling, are provided directly by the airlines. Here is the main contact information that may be useful for travellers:

• Official Website: The seaplane base itself does not have a dedicated website. All up-to-date information regarding schedules, booking, and carriage rules should be sought on the official websites of the airlines operating flights to Kake (e.g., Alaska Seaplanes).
• Helpline: For information on flights, bookings, or other queries, it is recommended to contact the air carrier directly. The phone number for the main operator, Alaska Seaplanes, is: +1 (907) 789-3331.
• Airport Address: Kake, AK 99830, USA. The seaplane base is a docking complex for seaplanes.
• Email: The seaplane base does not have a direct email address. Contact forms on their official websites are usually used to communicate with airlines.
• Social Media: The seaplane base does not maintain official pages on social media.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must contact the support service of the airline you flew with directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Any questions related to passenger support (including assistance for people with disabilities) are resolved through representatives of the carrying airline.

Getting to Kake Seaplane Base (KAE) is quite simple, as it is located in a small and compact settlement. The main methods of movement here differ significantly from those tourists are used to in large cities, and almost all options require prior organisation.

On Foot. Kake is a very small community, and the seaplane base is located in immediate proximity to its central part. If you are travelling light and your hotel or destination is within the village, the simplest and most reliable way to get to the terminal is a walk. This will take from 5 to 15 minutes from most points in Kake.

Taxi and Private Transfer. There are no large taxi companies in Kake, but local private carriers may operate. This is the best option if you have a lot of luggage or the weather is poor. A key recommendation is to arrange the trip in advance by contacting your hotel or a local resident. The cost of a trip within the village will likely be low, but it is worth clarifying when booking. The travel time by car from any point in Kake to the seaplane base is unlikely to exceed 5-10 minutes.

Car Rental. International car rental agencies are absent in Kake. It may be possible to rent a vehicle from a local business or private individual, but this service must be organised well before arrival. Given the size of the village, renting a car is only advisable if you plan to explore the surroundings beyond its limits.

Public Transport and Parking. It should be borne in mind that there is no public transport system in Kake — no buses, and certainly no metro or trains. If you have arrived in your own or a rented car, you will likely find a small informal and probably free parking area near the seaplane base. There should be no difficulties in finding a space.

When preparing for a journey through Kake Seaplane Base (KAE), it is important to understand its specific nature. This is not a classic airport with large terminals, but a compact hydro-aviation base designed to service seaplanes. Its structure is simple and functional, making navigation intuitively clear even for those visiting for the first time.

In fact, Kake Airport has only one passenger pavilion. This is a small building that serves as both the departure and arrival zone. There is no separation into domestic and international flights or multiple terminals. All pre-flight and post-flight activity is concentrated in one place, eliminating the need to transfer between terminals.

The layout of the airport is extremely simple: the passenger building is located directly by the water, next to the floating docks where the seaplanes moor. Inside the pavilion, there is an airline check-in desk and a small waiting room for passengers. Navigation will not cause difficulties: it is only a few dozen steps from the building entrance to the boarding point.

Check-in and screening procedures at Kake Seaplane Base are significantly faster than at major airports. There are no long queues for security screening or passport control in the conventional sense. Flight check-in usually takes just a few minutes. The entire process from arrival at the airport to boarding rarely exceeds 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive approximately 45 minutes before departure to check in luggage and complete all formalities without rushing.

The main advice for travellers is to follow the instructions of the airline staff. Given the small size of the seaplane base and the low number of flights, service here is almost individual in nature. Staff will advise when to start boarding and where to go. Check the status of your flight in advance, as seaplane flights are highly dependent on weather conditions.

The history of Kake Seaplane Base (KAE) is, in essence, the history of transport accessibility in the remote corners of Alaska. Unlike traditional airports with runways, its history is not marked by grand construction projects. The seaplane base developed organically, responding to the vital needs of the isolated community of Kake, located on Kupreanof Island in Southeast Alaska, where waterways have always been the main transport arteries.

It is difficult to pinpoint an exact founding date, as seaplanes began serving the region long before the official establishment of the base. With the development of aviation in the mid-20th century, a need arose to create a regulated and safe zone for water landings. Thus, the spontaneously used water area was officially recognised and equipped as Kake Seaplane Base. Its primary mission from the very beginning was not tourist transport, but ensuring a link with the outside world: delivering mail, cargo, medicines, and transporting residents to larger cities such as Juneau and Petersburg.

The main stages of the airport's development were associated not with expansion, but with the modernisation of onshore infrastructure. This included improving the docks, building a small terminal or waiting room for passengers, and arranging access roads. Each such improvement was an important step in enhancing the comfort and safety of residents. The seaplane base has not set records for passenger traffic, but its achievement is decades of uninterrupted operation in harsh climatic conditions, making it a true lifeline for the entire town.

An interesting fact: for many residents of Kake, the sound of an approaching seaplane is not just noise, but a familiar signal of the arrival of mail, fresh produce, or the return of neighbours. Today, Kake Seaplane Base, managed by the state, continues to perform its critically important function, remaining a symbol of how aviation helps overcome geographical barriers and sustain life in remote, yet uniquely beautiful corners of the planet.

Kake Seaplane Base (KAE) is a small functional terminal serving mainly local seaplane flights. Given its compact size and specific nature, the range of services here is basic and focused on meeting the key needs of passengers before departure or upon arrival.

The terminal building lacks restaurants, cafes, and shops. Passengers are advised to carry snacks and drinks with them. Main amenities, including shops and dining establishments, can be found in the town of Kake itself. The waiting area in the airport is simple, with no separate VIP rooms or premium lounges.

Facilities for passengers here are quite limited. As a rule, public Wi-Fi is not available, and the number of electrical outlets for charging devices is minimal. It is recommended to bring a portable charger. ATMs, currency exchange points, and other banking services are not provided in the terminal — one should visit the relevant institutions in town for these.

Specialised services, such as medical points, mother and child rooms, or play areas for children, are not provided at the seaplane base. Passengers with disabilities or those requiring special assistance when boarding are strongly advised to contact their airline in advance to coordinate all details and arrange support.

There are no hotels, business centres, or conference rooms on the territory of the seaplane base itself. All accommodation options, as well as business services, are available in the town of Kake, which is located in immediate proximity to the airport.

When planning a trip through Kake Seaplane Base (KAE), it is important to remember that this is a very compact and functional transport hub, designed primarily for flight operations. In the seaplane base building itself, there are no restaurants or cafes. All dining options are located in the nearby town of Kake, which is part of the state of Alaska, USA.

If you wish to have a full meal before or after your flight, it is worth visiting the SOS-Boxcar Cafe — the town's main café. They serve classic American dishes with local flair. Given the coastal location, be sure to try dishes made from fresh fish, such as salmon or halibut, which are often on the menu. Additionally, you can order hearty burgers and sandwiches. Prices reflect the remoteness of the region: be prepared to pay around $15-25 for a main course.

For a quick snack or to buy food to take away, the best choice would be the local Kake General Store. There you will find ready-made sandwiches, snacks, drinks, and other goods. Travellers with strict dietary preferences (vegans, vegetarians, or those requiring Halal options) should note that the selection for them will be extremely limited, so it is recommended to carry a supply of food with you.

Since the seaplane base is very close to the central part of the town, you will have the opportunity to eat before departure. However, we strongly recommend checking the opening hours in advance for the café and store, as in small settlements they may be irregular and highly dependent on the season. The most reliable plan is to refresh yourself before arriving at the departure waiting area.

Planning a trip through Kake Seaplane Base requires a special approach, as it is not a typical large air terminal, but a base for seaplanes. Here are a few tips to help make your journey comfortable and predictable.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. Unlike large airports, all procedures here take place much faster. It is recommended to arrive approximately 45-60 minutes before departure. This time will be sufficient to check in for the flight without rushing, weigh your luggage, and pass through simplified security control procedures. The check-in desk usually consists of a small window or a table manned by an airline representative.

Luggage and Seat Selection. The main feature of seaplane flights is strict restrictions on luggage weight and size. There is very little space on board, so travel light and check carriage allowances with your airline in advance. Seats in the cabin are often allocated by the pilot immediately before departure to ensure the correct balance of the aircraft. Do not worry: due to the small size of the vessel, a breathtaking view opens up from almost any seat.

Carry-on Rules and Customs. Standard items are prohibited in carry-on luggage: liquids in containers over 100 ml, sharp objects, and flammable substances. Since Kake Seaplane Base serves only domestic flights, there is no customs control here. This significantly simplifies and speeds up the boarding process.

Transfers and Flight Delays. Flights in Alaska are highly dependent on weather conditions. Fog, strong winds, or rain are frequent causes of delays. If you have a transfer planned at another airport, allow a significant buffer of time. In the event of a flight delay, stay in touch with the airline representative. Keep essentials with you (snacks, water, portable charger), as infrastructure in the waiting area may be minimal.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, book tickets in advance, especially if the trip falls during the tourist season. The main way to avoid extra costs is to strictly observe luggage allowances, as surcharges for excess weight can be substantial. Time savings are achieved through simple organisation: keep documents to hand and be ready for quick boarding.